Tag: Caravan journey

  • The Rise of Caravan Holidays in the UK & Ireland: Why More People Are Hitting the Road

    The Rise of Caravan Holidays in the UK & Ireland: Why More People Are Hitting the Road

    The New Golden Age of Caravan Travel

    Across the UK and Ireland, caravan holidays are enjoying a major revival. Once seen as a nostalgic or old-fashioned way to travel, they’ve transformed into one of the most popular and practical choices for families, couples, retirees, and solo travellers.

    With modern caravans and motorhomes boasting stylish interiors, smart tech, and improved comfort, this classic style of holiday is now one of the most flexible, cost-effective, and rewarding travel options available.

    From coastal getaways in Cornwall to scenic drives along the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland, caravan holidays offer something that no package deal or hotel ever can: complete freedom to roam, at your own pace, with your own space.


    1. Freedom to Explore the Best of Britain and Ireland

    A huge advantage of caravan holidays is the freedom to travel anywhere, anytime. Fancy a spur-of-the-moment escape to the Lake District, or a tour of the stunning Ring of Kerry? With a caravan or campervan, you’re not tied to bookings or itineraries—you’re free to change direction, extend your stay, or chase the sunshine.

    Ireland and the UK offer a rich variety of landscapes and cultural experiences that are perfect for touring:

    • The Scottish Highlands and North Coast 500
    • Pembrokeshire Coast in Wales
    • Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland
    • Wild Atlantic Way across the west of Ireland
    • Yorkshire Dales and Cotswolds villages

    Each region is dotted with well-maintained caravan parks, lay-bys, and wild camping spots that are ideal for discovering local beauty and culture up close.

    Uk and Ireland Map – (Click here)

    The wild atlantic way coastline northern ireland with stunning scenery
    Wild Atlantic Coast Line

    2. Budget-Friendly and Family-Oriented

    With the cost of flights, car hire, and hotels continuing to rise, caravan holidays offer significant savings.

    After the initial purchase or rental of a caravan, ongoing expenses are low. Campsite fees are generally affordable especially compared to nightly hotel rates and self catering means huge savings on food.

    This is a big win for families, who can share one space without the need for multiple rooms or rigid mealtimes. Many caravan sites across the UK and Ireland are family-friendly, with playgrounds, pools, activity programs, and safe areas for kids to explore.


    3. Pet-Friendly Travel Without Compromise

    For pet lovers, caravan holidays offer a huge perk: you can bring your dog (or cat) along for the ride. No more costly kennels or stressful goodbyes—your pets can enjoy the adventure with you.

    Across Britain and Ireland, there are hundreds of pet-friendly caravan parks, beaches, and trails where your four-legged friends are welcome. Popular dog-friendly regions include:

    • Norfolk Broads
    • Connemara National Park
    • Snowdonia National Park
    • Isle of Skye

    Here are some Pet Essentials for Caravan Travel:

    Pet Travel Bag (Click here)

    Collapsible Bowls – (Click here)

    Pet first aid kit – (Click here)

    Pet Friendly holidaying meaning all the family can join in
    Caravanning is Pet Friendly

    4. Closer to Nature, Away from the Crowds

    Caravan holidays bring you right into nature, whether you’re waking up beside a misty loch in Scotland or setting up camp near the cliffs of Moher. You can park up near national parks, lakes, beaches, and forest trails—often in places that hotels simply don’t reach.

    Being surrounded by greenery and fresh air has proven mental health benefits. Caravan holidays are ideal for those wanting a digital detox, mindfulness break, or just peace and quiet away from the hustle of city life.

    Bird Spotter Book Childrens(Click here)

    Bird Pocket Guide (Click here)

    Kids Binoculars (Click here)

    Adult Binoculars (Click here)

    Back to Nature at Annaginney Fishery Caravan park and farm
    Back to Nature at Annaginney Fishery Caravan park and farm

    5. Safe, Self-Contained Travel in a Post-Pandemic World

    Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many people have opted for travel options that minimise risk and maximise personal space. A caravan acts as your own private bubble, with no need to share bathrooms, dining areas, or transport with strangers.

    This makes caravanning a safe and sanitary option—perfect for those with health concerns, immune conditions, or just a desire for privacy.

    Own Kitchen

    6. Great for Retirees and Multi-Generational Travel

    Caravan travel is especially popular among retired couples and older adults seeking slow, meaningful travel experiences. With many retirement-age travelers now enjoying good health, more disposable income, and flexible schedules, caravan touring has become a perfect fit.

    Caravans are also ideal for multi-generational travel, allowing grandparents, parents, and children to holiday together while maintaining their own space.


    7. Digital Nomad & Remote Work Capabilities

    Remote work isn’t just a trend it’s a movement. Thanks to mobile internet and solar-powered caravans, working while traveling is easier than ever. With scenic spots like Donegal, Northumberland, or County Kerry as your backdrop, remote work becomes something to look forward to.

    Many campsites in the UK and Ireland now offer Wi-Fi, work spaces, and charging facilities, supporting professionals who want to take their job on the road.


    8. Eco-Conscious and Sustainable Travel

    More travellers are choosing sustainable holidays, and caravan travel can be one of the greenest ways to explore—especially when paired with good practices like:

    • Using solar panels and renewable energy
    • Minimising waste and using local produce
    • Travelling shorter, slower routes to reduce emissions

    Caravans also use less energy than hotel chains and allow travellers to support rural and local economies in off-the-beaten-track areas of Britain and Ireland.

    scenery at tollymore forest park
    Back to Nature

    9. Strong Sense of Community

    The caravan and motorhome community is famously welcoming. Whether you’re staying at a large holiday park in Devon or a small field in Co. Clare, you’ll often find like-minded people happy to offer advice, share stories, or even lend a hand with parking!

    Many sites host evening events, kids’ activities, and community meals, making it a sociable and relaxed atmosphere—especially beneficial for solo travellers or newcomers.

    Kids outdoor Games (Click here)


    10. Supporting Local Tourism in the UK and Ireland

    By staying in local caravan parks, eating at village pubs, and shopping at farm shops or craft markets, caravanners directly support rural communities and local tourism. This is particularly valuable in regions still recovering from the economic impact of the pandemic and rising inflation.

    When you travel by caravan, you’re not just seeing the country—you’re investing in it, sustaining traditions, and helping small towns thrive.

    Landrover Tollymore forest park newscastle northern ireland
    Landrover tow car Tollymore Forest Park Entrance

    Caravan Holidays Are the Future of Domestic Travel

    From the dramatic cliffs of Antrim to the serene lakes of Cumbria, caravan holidays in the UK and Ireland deliver unforgettable travel experiences rooted in freedom, affordability, and connection to nature.

    Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or considering your first motorhome rental, there has never been a better time to embrace the caravanning lifestyle. With more infrastructure, better vehicles, and growing public interest, it’s no surprise that caravan holidays are now one of the fastest-growing sectors in domestic tourism.

    So pack up the essentials, grab a map, and hit the road—the next great adventure is just around the bend.

    No Crabby attitudes when caravanning
    No crabby attitudes when caravanning

    Most Importantly of all! Enjoy and Relax! Thanks for reading!

  • Touring Scotland in a Caravan or Motorhome with an Itinerary

    Touring Scotland in a Caravan or Motorhome with an Itinerary

    Touring Scotland in a caravan is an incredible way to explore its rugged landscapes, historic sites, and charming towns at your own pace. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan:


    🚐 Why Tour Scotland in a Caravan?

    • Flexibility: Stay longer in the places you love.
    • Access to remote areas: Like the Isle of Skye or North Coast 500.
    • Budget-friendly: Save on accommodation and dining.
    • Immersive experience: Wake up to lochs, mountains, or the sound of the sea.

    🗺️ Suggested Caravan Routes

    1. North Coast 500 (NC500)

    • Start/End: Inverness
    • Distance: ~500 miles
    • Highlights: Duncansby Stacks, Smoo Cave, Torridon, Bealach na Bà
    • Camping: Plenty of campsites and wild camping spots

    2. Isle of Skye & the Highlands

    • Route: Fort William → Mallaig → Ferry to Skye → Explore → Kyle of Lochalsh
    • Highlights: Fairy Pools, Quiraing, Old Man of Storr

    3. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

    • Close to: Glasgow
    • Great for: Forest walks, lake views, gentle driving

    4. East Coast Heritage Trail

    • Aberdeen to Berwick-upon-Tweed
    • Highlights: Dunnottar Castle, Stonehaven, St. Andrews

    🏕️ Caravan Parks & Wild Camping

    Caravan Parks (Top-rated)

    • Red Squirrel Campsite (Glen Coe)
    • Loch Ness Shores (near Inverness)
    • Skye Camping and Caravanning Club Site

    Wild Camping Tips (Legal in Scotland)

    • Park responsibly (not on farmland or obstructing roads)
    • Use a toilet or carry a portable one
    • Leave no trace

    📅 Best Time to Visit

    • May–September: Best weather
    • Avoid Midges: May–August (bring repellent or nets)
    • Spring/Autumn: Fewer tourists and midges

    🧳 What to Pack

    • Waterproof clothing (Click here)
    • Layers (weather can change rapidly)
    • GPS or offline maps (signal can be spotty) (Click here)
    • Food supplies (some areas are remote)
    • Waste disposal bags & a toilet cassette

    🚦 Driving Tips

    • Drive on the left
    • Be cautious on single-track roads
    • Use passing places to let others by
    • Follow speed limits, especially in villages
    • Some roads are not suitable for large caravans (e.g., Bealach na Bà)

    📱 Useful Apps

    • Park4Night – find overnight spots
    • Campercontact – reviews and site details
    • VisitScotland – local highlights
    • Offline maps – Maps.me or Google Maps offline
    • Duration: 2 weeks
    • Starting Point: Cairnryan (SW Scotland ferry port)
    • Travel Style: Mixture of scenic drives, castles, coast, hikes, whisky (for adults!), and fun for kids
    • Vehicle: Towing a caravan or motorhome
    • Goal: See as much as possible, comfortably

    🗺️ Suggested 2-Week Scotland Caravan Itinerary (Starting in Cairnryan)


    Day 1–2: Cairnryan → Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

    • Drive: ~3 hours
    • Stay: Cashel Campsite (on Loch Lomond)
    • Do: Loch cruises, short woodland walks, Balloch Castle Country Park
    • Kids: Paddleboarding or bike hire at Loch Lomond Shores

    Day 3–4: Trossachs → Glencoe

    • Drive: ~2 hours
    • Stay: Red Squirrel Campsite or Invercoe Caravan Park
    • Do: Walk the Lost Valley, visit the Glencoe Visitor Centre
    • Kids: Easy waterfall walks, storytelling at the Centre

    Day 5–6: Glencoe → Isle of Skye

    • Drive: ~3.5 hours via Fort William and the Skye Bridge
    • Stay: Skye Camping and Caravanning Club Site or Torvaig Campsite (Portree)
    • Do: Fairy Pools, Old Man of Storr, Quiraing, Dunvegan Castle
    • Kids: Skye Fairy Trail, rock-pooling on the coast

    Day 7–8: Skye → Ullapool (start of North Coast 500)

    • Drive: ~3 hours
    • Stay: Broomfield Holiday Park
    • Do: Stac Pollaidh hike (short but stunning), boat tour from Ullapool
    • Kids: Beaches, fossil hunting

    Day 9–10: NC500 North Route – Ullapool to Durness

    • Drive: ~2.5–3 hours coastal route
    • Stay: Sango Sands Oasis
    • Do: Smoo Cave, Balnakeil Beach, Chocolate shop
    • Kids: Giant sand dunes, cave tours

    Day 11: Durness → Inverness (East Coast)

    • Drive: ~4.5 hours (allow stops)
    • Stay: Bught Caravan Park
    • Do: Loch Ness cruise, Urquhart Castle
    • Kids: Loch Ness Centre, Nessie hunting!

    Day 12: Inverness → Pitlochry (Cairngorms detour)

    • Drive: ~2 hours
    • Stay: Faskally Caravan Park
    • Do: Blair Castle, Highland Safaris
    • Kids: Wildlife park nearby, mini-ATV rides

    Day 13: Pitlochry → Edinburgh

    • Drive: ~2 hours
    • Stay: Mortonhall Caravan Park
    • Do: Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, Museum of Childhood
    • Kids: Camera Obscura, Dynamic Earth

    Day 14: Edinburgh → Cairnryan

    • Drive: ~3.5–4 hours (optional break in Ayr or Galloway Forest)
    • Return ferry or prep for next leg

    🏕️ Campsite Booking Tips

    • July/August = peak season → book in advance
    • Look for electric hook-up, family-friendly facilities, and play areas
    • Wild camping is harder with towed caravans, but possible with a motorhome (especially in NC500 area)

    🧃 Extras for Families

    • Bring binoculars (eagles, dolphins, red deer) (Click here)
    • Travel games/books/tablets for rainy days (Click here)
    • Rain gear and midge repellent (very important in the west)(Click here)

  • Guide to buying your first caravan

    Guide to buying your first caravan

    🛻 Guide to Buying Your First Caravan

    1. 🎯 Define Your Needs

    Start with the essentials:

    • How many people will use it? Couples may only need a 2-berth, while families may need 4–6 berths.
    • How often will you use it? Occasional trips vs. full-time travel can impact what type of caravan is suitable.
    • Where will you travel? On-road or off-road? International or domestic?
    • Towing vehicle? Ensure your car is suitable (see below).

    2. 🚙 Check Your Towing Capacity

    Your vehicle’s towing capacity is critical.

    • Check the Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) and Tare weight of the caravan.
    • Match it to your car’s Maximum Braked Towing Capacity.
    • Remember the Gross Combination Mass (GCM) if loading both the vehicle and caravan.
    • Make sure you have a suitble tow bar that takes the correct nose weight, you can test your caravans nose weight with this device (Click here)

    💡 Pro tip: Stay under 85% of your car’s kerb weight for safer towing if you’re a beginner.

    LandRover Freelander and Elddis Crusader Aurora 4 berth caravan
    Elddis Aurora Caravn and Land Rover Freelander

    3. 🏕️ New vs. Used Caravans

    New Caravan Pros:

    • Warranty and latest tech.
    • No hidden damage.

    Used Caravan Pros:

    • More affordable.
    • Slower depreciation.

    🔍 When buying used, inspect:

    • Damp, mold, and water damage. You can buy a damp meter tester. (Click here)
    • Chassis and tires.
    • Appliances and electrics.
    • Service history.
    Old Elddis Typhoon GT 4 berth EB Caravan
    Elddis Typhoon GT 1997

    4. 🛏️ Layout and Features

    Popular layouts vary—visit dealerships or expos to explore:

    🔧 Must-have features for many:


    5. 💰 Budget and Hidden Costs

    Besides the purchase price, consider:

    • Insurance
    • Storage (if not kept at home)
    • Maintenance and servicing
    • Towing mirrors and hitch locks. Towing mirror (Click here)
    • Site fees and club memberships (like Caravan and Motorhome Club)

    6. 🧾 Legal & Safety Requirements (UK Example)

    • Valid driving licence for the weight (Check your Category B license limits)
    • Number plate on the caravan
    • Properly rated towbar and electrics Example Alko system requires this tow hitch (Click here)
    • Working brake lights and indicators
    • Ensure caravan brakes and breakaway cable are functional. Buy a replacement (Click here)

    7. 📍 Where to Buy

    • Dealerships – Safer, with consumer protections
    • Online marketplaces (e.g., Autotrader, Facebook marketplace)
    • Caravan shows – Try multiple models in one place
    • Private sellers – Cheaper but riskier

    8. 🧪 Try Before You Buy

    If unsure, rent a caravan for a weekend. This gives you a real sense of what layout and size works for you.


    9. 🛠️ Plan for Servicing and Storage

    • Annual servicing is recommended (chassis, gas, electrics).
    • Store under cover if possible to reduce wear. You can buy one (Click here)

    10. 🧭 Join a Caravan Community

    Great for advice, buying tips, campsite recommendations:

    • Caravan and Motorhome Club
    • Online forums or Facebook groups
    • YouTube channels (many do walkarounds and reviews)
    Guide to buying your first caravan

    For all your caravan needs or to browse (Click here)

  • Quick guide on caravan awning accessories

    Quick guide on caravan awning accessories

    Elddis crusador aurora caravan drumhoney caravan park

    Here’s a list of common caravan awning accessories, organized by category, to help you equip and enhance your setup:


    🛠️ Installation & Setup Accessories

    • Awning pegs/stakes – Standard or heavy-duty depending on ground conditions. (Click here)
    • Guy ropes & tensioners – For securing in windy conditions.
    • Pole sets or air beams – Replacement or upgrade kits for frame support.
    • Awning rail lubricant – Makes it easier to slide awning into the rail. (Click here)
    • Draft skirt – Fills the gap under the caravan to reduce wind and drafts. (Click here)
    • Wheel arch cover – Blocks drafts around the wheel arch area. (Click here)

    🧼 Protection & Maintenance

    • Awning cleaner – For removing dirt, algae, and mildew. (Click here)
    • Waterproofing spray – Restores or enhances water resistance. (Click here)
    • Awning storage bags – Keeps it clean and organized when not in use.
    • Groundsheet or footprint – Protects the awning floor and improves comfort. (Click here)

    💡 Comfort & Living Accessories

    • Awning carpet/mat – Adds insulation and comfort underfoot. (Click here)
    • Lighting – LED strip lights, lanterns, or solar-powered options.
    • Heating/cooling fans – Electric or gas heaters, portable fans for airflow.
    • Furniture – Foldable tables, chairs, storage units, and cupboards. (Click here)
    • Curtains or blinds – For extra privacy and light control.

    🔌 Power & Connectivity

    • 12V and 240V power adapters – For lights, appliances, or chargers.
    • Extension leads & cable tidy – For safe, flexible power setups.
    • USB charging hubs – For phones, tablets, etc.

    🛑 Security & Safety

    • Awning tie-down kits – For added storm protection.
    • Awning windbreaks – Provides privacy and wind shelter. (Click here)
    • Bug screens or mesh doors – Keep insects out.
    • Carbon monoxide/smoke detectors – Especially if using gas heaters inside.

    Add-ons & Expansions

    • Annexes or extensions – Add sleeping space or storage.
    • Sun canopies or verandas – For shade without full enclosure. (Click here)
    • Side panels/front panels – Customize based on wind/weather direction.
    • Porch awnings – Smaller, quicker to erect than full awnings. (Click here)

    Why not check out our other post on Caravan porch awnings? (click here)

    Elddis crusader aurora with porch awning
  • Caravan Porch Awnings

    Caravan Porch Awnings

    A porch awning for caravans offers a range of practical and lifestyle benefits, especially for travelers looking to extend their living space and comfort while on the road. Here’s a breakdown of the main advantages:


    1. Extra Living Space

    • Increases usable area for relaxing, dining, or storage.
    • Provides a semi-enclosed space ideal for chairs, tables, or even an extra sleeping area (with certain models).

    2. Weather Protection

    • Shelters from sun, rain, and wind, making outdoor activities more comfortable in varying conditions.
    • Helps keep the caravan cleaner by offering a transition area where you can remove muddy shoes or wet clothes.

    3. Better Storage Options

    • Awnings are ideal for storing bikes, boots, outdoor gear, or pets without cluttering the inside of your caravan.
    • Some models come with built-in storage compartments or options to add them.

    4. Privacy and Security

    • Creates a more private space in crowded caravan parks or campsites.
    • Can deter theft by obscuring access to the main entrance and offering a place to store valuables discreetly.

    5. Energy Efficiency

    • By shading windows and doors, awnings can reduce heat build-up inside the caravan, helping to keep it cooler in summer and reducing the need for air conditioning.

    6. Enhanced Comfort & Lifestyle

    • Makes it easier to entertain guests, enjoy meals outside, or just relax with more room to spread out.
    • Adds a homely, comfortable feel to your camping setup.

    7. Easy Setup & Versatility

    • Modern porch awnings (especially inflatable types) are quick to pitch and dismantle.
    • Available in various styles (full, porch, inflatable, drive-away) to suit different needs and caravan models.
    Elddis typhoon gt and porch awning at bloody bridge campsite

    Types of Caravan Porch Awnings

    1. Traditional Pole Awnings

    • Structure: Metal or fiberglass poles with fabric.
    • Pros: Strong, stable, usually cheaper.
    • Cons: Takes longer to set up, heavier.

    2. Inflatable (Air) Awnings

    • Structure: Inflatable air tubes instead of poles.
    • Pros: Very quick and easy to set up, lighter to carry.
    • Cons: Typically more expensive; punctures (though rare) can be an issue.

    3. Drive-Away Awnings (for campervans or motorhomes)

    • Pros: Can detach and remain standing if you drive away.
    • Best for: Touring and staying mobile.

    4. Seasonal Awnings

    • Designed for: Long-term setups or seasonal pitches.
    • Features: Heavier-duty materials, better weather resistance.
    • Cons: Heavier and more complex to set up.

    5. Touring Awnings

    • Designed for: Frequent setup and take-down.
    • Features: Lightweight, compact, quick-pitch designs.

    Our view on the best awning?

    Air awning, So much easier to set up! We found the pole awnings to be what most people in the caravan world call divorce in a bag! Here is a list of some awnings:

    Streetwize Accessories Leisurewize LWPP2C Ontario Porch Awning 390 Charcoal (Click here)

    Sunncamp Swift 325 Air Caravan Awning Free Pump & Gauge Free Storm Straps (Click here)

    OLPRO View 420 Inflatable Caravan Porch Awning with Extension (Click here)

    Why not check out our quick guide to caravan awning accessories? (click here)